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Landmarks board approves relocation of accessory building at 1733 Canyon Blvd
Summary
The Boulder Landmarks Board unanimously approved a conditional landmark alteration certificate to move a contributing accessory building at 1733 Canyon Blvd to allow sewer repairs; the decision is subject to a 16‑day City Council call‑up. Staff found the 8x12 metal structure’s proposed new siting compatible with historic guidelines.
The Boulder Landmarks Board voted unanimously Aug. 5 to approve a landmark alteration certificate allowing the relocation of an accessory building at 1733 Canyon Boulevard, part of the Woodward Baird (Little Gray House) individual landmark.
Marcy Gerwing, principal planner, told the board the application (HIS 202600192) was received July 1 and that staff had reviewed it under Boulder Revised Code §9‑11‑18 and applicable design guidelines. Staff described the accessory building as an early, contributing structure about 8 by 12 feet, clad in rusted corrugated metal, and recommended conditional approval. "Staff recommends that the landmarks board conditionally approve the application," Gerwing said during the presentation.
Applicant Robert Von Eshen said the relocation is needed so contractors can repair a crushed sewer line that sits about 6 feet down and is too close to the corner of the lot. "Because the sewer line is crushed right now and it's 6 feet down and it is too close to the corner," Von Eshen told the board, explaining why the move is timely.
Staff said the building would be moved roughly 44 feet to the south on the lot, producing about a 12‑foot separation from the main house; staff noted the fire‑separation minimum is 6 feet and described 12 feet as preferable to maintain a buffer and the historic relationship between the house and accessory building. The board discussed structural concerns and the care required to move the metal building intact; the applicant said the unit would be set on a concrete slab, stabilized and moved in one piece.
Committee member (S6) moved to adopt the staff memorandum dated 08/05/2026 and approve the certificate with the conditions recommended by staff; the motion was seconded and passed 5‑0. Gerwing said the approval is subject to a 16‑day City Council call‑up period; if council does not call it up, staff will issue the landmark alteration certificate after final details are submitted and the applicant will then file for a relocation permit.
The board’s approval requires findings that the work "preserves, enhances, or restores and does not damage or destroy the exterior architectural features" as described in the cited code; staff concluded the proposal meets those standards and is generally consistent with the general design guidelines for Boulder's historic districts and individual landmarks.
